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What customers say

The testimonials for John Nelson's Sandler Sales Training highlight a transformative experience for participants, emphasizing significant growth in confidence, clarity, and sales acumen. Many users praised John's exceptional facilitation skills, noting his genuine enthusiasm, empathy, and ability to create a supportive learning environment. Several testimonials pointed out the immediate return on investment in their businesses and the practicality of the Sandler techniques, which helped streamline their sales processes and develop meaningful client relationships. Participants found John's approach refreshing, as he fosters a mindset that prioritizes authentic interactions over transaction-focused selling. Overall, the feedback reflects a deep appreciation for both the course content and John's committed mentorship, making many eager to continue learning from him in the future.

Review highlights

Transformative experiencesExceptional facilitatorImmediate impact on businessPractical and relevant contentBuilds confidenceFosters genuine relationships
Tom Ryan

CEO

When we started working with John and Sandler, Bravo Team was a classic founder-led early stage business. We were selling by ear: no established process, no defined structure, and a part-time sales effort at best. Sandler has become the operating system for our sales organization, giving us both the foundational knowledge and an efficient framework to train up a brand new sales team, most of whom came from non-traditional sales backgrounds. Just as valuable has been John's seasoned coaching and advisory, which has helped us refine our high-level strategy as we've shifted from a historically transactional posture toward genuine Major Account Management and target account selling. We're a 3x Inc 5000 honoree, and building the sales foundation Sandler helped us put in place has been part of that growth story. One thing that sets John apart: he blends decades of strategic, senior-level enterprise sales and leadership experience with a style that's approachable no matter where you are in your career. He makes it genuinely fun and engaging, which matters a lot for a team that might otherwise dread formal sales training. If you're building a sales organization from the ground up or trying to mature one, I'd recommend John and Sandler without hesitation.
When we started working with John and Sandler, Bravo Team was a classic founder-led early stage business. We were selling by ear: no established process, no defined structure, and a part-time sales effort at best. Sandler has become the operating system for our sales organization, giving us both the foundational knowledge and an efficient framework to train up a brand new sales team, most of whom came from non-traditional sales backgrounds. Just as valuable has been John's seasoned coaching and advisory, which has helped us refine our high-level strategy as we've shifted from a historically transactional posture toward genuine Major Account Management and target account selling. We're a 3x Inc 5000 honoree, and building the sales foundation Sandler helped us put in place has been part of that growth story. One thing that sets John apart: he blends decades of strategic, senior-level enterprise sales and leadership experience with a style that's approachable no matter where you are in your career. He makes it genuinely fun and engaging, which matters a lot for a team that might otherwise dread formal sales training. If you're building a sales organization from the ground up or trying to mature one, I'd recommend John and Sandler without hesitation.

Ashley Spry

Director of Sales and Business Development, Bravo Team

"The biggest shift?" When I started working with John, I was brand new to sales. With an engineering background, I had just transitioned into a Business Development role with no formal sales training and the task of building our company's sales structure, process, and team from the ground up. Honestly, I never liked the idea of sales. It always felt too pushy, too forced. I struggled with being assertive and showing up as an equal in a business conversation. Working with John one-on-one through Sandler changed that. I've since grown into a Sales Director role, leading a team while continuing to drive company growth. I stopped operating with a "the customer is always right" mindset and started showing up with equal business stature. I know what our company brings to the table, and we're focused on finding clients who are the right fit, not just any client. The goal is partnership, not just a transaction. One of the most tangible changes has been in how we qualify opportunities. In the past, clients would drag us through a long sales process and ghost us after receiving a proposal. Now we have the tools to qualify upfront, set clear expectations, and shorten our sales cycle. A quick no is still a win and Sandler taught me that. If you're considering Sandler, especially if you never saw yourself as a salesperson, this is the training that will change how you think, communicate, and lead.

"The biggest shift?" When I started working with John, I was brand new to sales. With an engineering background, I had just transitioned into a Business Development role with no formal sales training and the task of building our company's sales structure, process, and team from the ground up. Honestly, I never liked the idea of sales. It always felt too pushy, too forced. I struggled with being assertive and showing up as an equal in a business conversation. Working with John one-on-one through Sandler changed that. I've since grown into a Sales Director role, leading a team while continuing to drive company growth. I stopped operating with a "the customer is always right" mindset and started showing up with equal business stature. I know what our company brings to the table, and we're focused on finding clients who are the right fit, not just any client. The goal is partnership, not just a transaction. One of the most tangible changes has been in how we qualify opportunities. In the past, clients would drag us through a long sales process and ghost us after receiving a proposal. Now we have the tools to qualify upfront, set clear expectations, and shorten our sales cycle. A quick no is still a win and Sandler taught me that. If you're considering Sandler, especially if you never saw yourself as a salesperson, this is the training that will change how you think, communicate, and lead.

CA
Chad Altbaier

Co-CEO, Standard Fiber

John did an excellent job facilitating a training program for our sales, marketing, and merchandising teams. He brought a strong blend of energy, engagement, and empathy, and was able to connect effectively with an audience representing a wide range of skill sets and backgrounds. His content was practical, relevant, and well-delivered. I would highly recommend John to any organization looking to strengthen and develop its team.
John did an excellent job facilitating a training program for our sales, marketing, and merchandising teams. He brought a strong blend of energy, engagement, and empathy, and was able to connect effectively with an audience representing a wide range of skill sets and backgrounds. His content was practical, relevant, and well-delivered. I would highly recommend John to any organization looking to strengthen and develop its team.

KF
Kory Futa

VP of Sales

John Nelson is a game-changing facilitator. His Sandler sales training was an immediate impact to me, and my team. He masterfully breaks down the psychology of selling, teaching you how to be a trusted advisor. The frameworks I learned from John have completely transformed how I manage and navigate complex deals. I highly recommend his workshops to any sales professional or leader looking to seriously level up their sales acumen, and revenue growth. Thanks John!!
John Nelson is a game-changing facilitator. His Sandler sales training was an immediate impact to me, and my team. He masterfully breaks down the psychology of selling, teaching you how to be a trusted advisor. The frameworks I learned from John have completely transformed how I manage and navigate complex deals. I highly recommend his workshops to any sales professional or leader looking to seriously level up their sales acumen, and revenue growth. Thanks John!!

Lucy Matthews

Strategic Partnerships, WattTime

John’s greatest strength is meeting you exactly where you are. After our very first conversation, I felt heard, understood, and hopeful. He took the time to understand what I needed from the Sandler method and tailored his approach specifically for me, going well beyond the standard course material to support my personal journey. While I was already familiar with Sandler, joining a cohort gave me a community of peers committed to honing their craft; a safe space to celebrate wins and dissect losses. My biggest practical takeaway? Saving time. Learning to get to a 'no' faster has allowed me to clean up my pipeline and focus my energy on deals that actually close. I met John when my confidence was at an all-time low. He recognized that immediately and went out of his way to rebuild it. His unwavering positivity is truly infectious! If you’re on the fence about taking this course, just do it. Sales is a craft that requires constant refinement, and learning alongside people from different industries will completely broaden your perspective
John’s greatest strength is meeting you exactly where you are. After our very first conversation, I felt heard, understood, and hopeful. He took the time to understand what I needed from the Sandler method and tailored his approach specifically for me, going well beyond the standard course material to support my personal journey. While I was already familiar with Sandler, joining a cohort gave me a community of peers committed to honing their craft; a safe space to celebrate wins and dissect losses. My biggest practical takeaway? Saving time. Learning to get to a 'no' faster has allowed me to clean up my pipeline and focus my energy on deals that actually close. I met John when my confidence was at an all-time low. He recognized that immediately and went out of his way to rebuild it. His unwavering positivity is truly infectious! If you’re on the fence about taking this course, just do it. Sales is a craft that requires constant refinement, and learning alongside people from different industries will completely broaden your perspective

Ezra Herzog

Founder @ Raise Insurance Solutions

I took the Sandler Essentials with John Bartlett Nelson. While I had limited familiarity with Sandler through a prior coaching relationship, this deep dive into the meat of the teachings has produced an immediate return on investment in my business. First you have the content which is top notch. It works Has deep value for sales teams business owners anybody in a sales environment will benefit. Second, you have the instructor who creates context, understanding, rationale, customization, and problem-solving for the student. There's so much inside of the Sandler system that it takes time to digest the power and opportunity I feel I'm barely scratching the surface and can't wait to master these lessons and implement them further in my business practice. John, you've been a real partner in my business and have lit a fire underneath me that is burning strong and creating more benefit for more people and for that I will always be grateful. I can't say enough good things about the work you're doing. Gratefully, Ezra Herzog Founder/Benefits Advisor @ Raise Insurance Solutions Small and Mid Sized Employee Benefits Insurance Producer

I took the Sandler Essentials with John Bartlett Nelson. While I had limited familiarity with Sandler through a prior coaching relationship, this deep dive into the meat of the teachings has produced an immediate return on investment in my business. First you have the content which is top notch. It works Has deep value for sales teams business owners anybody in a sales environment will benefit. Second, you have the instructor who creates context, understanding, rationale, customization, and problem-solving for the student. There's so much inside of the Sandler system that it takes time to digest the power and opportunity I feel I'm barely scratching the surface and can't wait to master these lessons and implement them further in my business practice. John, you've been a real partner in my business and have lit a fire underneath me that is burning strong and creating more benefit for more people and for that I will always be grateful. I can't say enough good things about the work you're doing. Gratefully, Ezra Herzog Founder/Benefits Advisor @ Raise Insurance Solutions Small and Mid Sized Employee Benefits Insurance Producer

LB
Laura Bailey

Founder & Managing Partner, L. Bailey Search Associates

Big Thumbs Up For Me!

“The mindset work in this training has been a game-changer for me. It helped rebuild my confidence and reminded me that I bring equal value to my buyers. The 30-second commercial exercise has also been incredibly useful—it's something I now keep ready for every new interaction. What stood out most was the genuine enthusiasm and care our trainer showed for our success. The ongoing encouragement, practical coaching, and even the way they connected us with others for professional synergy made this experience exceptional. This training wasn’t just valuable—it was enjoyable and energizing. Big thumbs up from me!” 

“The mindset work in this training has been a game-changer for me. It helped rebuild my confidence and reminded me that I bring equal value to my buyers. The 30-second commercial exercise has also been incredibly useful—it's something I now keep ready for every new interaction. What stood out most was the genuine enthusiasm and care our trainer showed for our success. The ongoing encouragement, practical coaching, and even the way they connected us with others for professional synergy made this experience exceptional. This training wasn’t just valuable—it was enjoyable and energizing. Big thumbs up from me!” 

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Cole Garzoli

Jenelle Friday

Business Development Executive, BDR.ai

John is one of those rare people you meet once and immediately know you want to stay connected to for the long term. From the very first interaction, his energy is both contagious and grounding at the same time, he brings a level of presence that makes people feel seen, heard, and genuinely valued. But what truly sets John apart isn’t just his personality, it’s his intent. Having worked with many clients over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to experience a wide range of communication styles and professional approaches. John stands out because of how he consistently shows up to every conversation. He leads with curiosity, listens deeply, and approaches every interaction with a sincere desire to help without any underlying agenda. It’s rare to meet someone who operates with such a strong “others-first” mindset. There’s no sense of WIIFM, no transactional undertone. Instead, John is focused on creating real value, building meaningful relationships, and supporting people in whatever way he can. That kind of authenticity is not only refreshing, it’s impactful. Beyond that, he brings a level of thoughtfulness and insight that makes every conversation worthwhile. You walk away not just feeling good, but thinking differently and that’s a powerful combination. I’m genuinely grateful our paths crossed, and I’m excited to continue learning from him and watching the impact he creates.
John is one of those rare people you meet once and immediately know you want to stay connected to for the long term. From the very first interaction, his energy is both contagious and grounding at the same time, he brings a level of presence that makes people feel seen, heard, and genuinely valued. But what truly sets John apart isn’t just his personality, it’s his intent. Having worked with many clients over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to experience a wide range of communication styles and professional approaches. John stands out because of how he consistently shows up to every conversation. He leads with curiosity, listens deeply, and approaches every interaction with a sincere desire to help without any underlying agenda. It’s rare to meet someone who operates with such a strong “others-first” mindset. There’s no sense of WIIFM, no transactional undertone. Instead, John is focused on creating real value, building meaningful relationships, and supporting people in whatever way he can. That kind of authenticity is not only refreshing, it’s impactful. Beyond that, he brings a level of thoughtfulness and insight that makes every conversation worthwhile. You walk away not just feeling good, but thinking differently and that’s a powerful combination. I’m genuinely grateful our paths crossed, and I’m excited to continue learning from him and watching the impact he creates.

Precious Kofi

AeroBook

Through this course I’ve learned to show up with confidence & clarity, balancing assertiveness with respect for myself & others.
Through this course I’ve learned to show up with confidence & clarity, balancing assertiveness with respect for myself & others.

Jonathan Sly
I worked with John at Forrester for many years first as a peer and then as a direct report. Put simply John was one of the best sales account people I have ever met. John exudes incredible business acumen, high emotional intelligence and an always positive attitude. When John became a manager and head of our western region, he did something few great salespeople can do...a successful and seamless transition to leadership. As a first time manager myself I was very appreciative of John's guidance. He was always consistent with great emphasis on fostering an environment of encouragement and collaboration. He pushed me positively along the way to be my best and do my best for my team. Most importantly it was fun to work with John. I thoroughly enjoyed the great business conversations we had over the years. I recommend John highly he would be a tremendous asset to any organization he works with.
I worked with John at Forrester for many years first as a peer and then as a direct report. Put simply John was one of the best sales account people I have ever met. John exudes incredible business acumen, high emotional intelligence and an always positive attitude. When John became a manager and head of our western region, he did something few great salespeople can do...a successful and seamless transition to leadership. As a first time manager myself I was very appreciative of John's guidance. He was always consistent with great emphasis on fostering an environment of encouragement and collaboration. He pushed me positively along the way to be my best and do my best for my team. Most importantly it was fun to work with John. I thoroughly enjoyed the great business conversations we had over the years. I recommend John highly he would be a tremendous asset to any organization he works with.

Angela M Dunz

Biz Dev Badass - Owner / Founder

Recently, I nearly lost a client and a friendship. Fortunately, I paused and tried to "Sandler it out." I am very high "D" on the DiSC®️ profile, and my method for making decisions is not at all the way others make decisions. I thought we had arrived at the "done deal" stage. I had. My potential client is a high "C" and I do not understand their decision-making process at all. With a little help, I completely rethought his process, wrote a 5th email that I thought would address his final reservations and hit send with a prayer. Not even an hour later, he sent me the nicest email thanking me for outlining everything so thoughtfully, and he paid the invoice. Without Sandler Training, I would have lost the deal and a friendship. John goes so deep into individual application of the Sandler Technique. As a Business Development coach myself, Sandler is the only Sales Training I recommend to my clients. Because, it is based on building relationship FIRST.
Recently, I nearly lost a client and a friendship. Fortunately, I paused and tried to "Sandler it out." I am very high "D" on the DiSC®️ profile, and my method for making decisions is not at all the way others make decisions. I thought we had arrived at the "done deal" stage. I had. My potential client is a high "C" and I do not understand their decision-making process at all. With a little help, I completely rethought his process, wrote a 5th email that I thought would address his final reservations and hit send with a prayer. Not even an hour later, he sent me the nicest email thanking me for outlining everything so thoughtfully, and he paid the invoice. Without Sandler Training, I would have lost the deal and a friendship. John goes so deep into individual application of the Sandler Technique. As a Business Development coach myself, Sandler is the only Sales Training I recommend to my clients. Because, it is based on building relationship FIRST.

Timothy Swords

Mindful Leadership Executive Coaching

I took John's Essentials course and it had immediate impact on my sales success! I highly recommend this course to professional services providers excellent in what they provide, and want to be proficient in sales to create a successful business.

I took John's Essentials course and it had immediate impact on my sales success! I highly recommend this course to professional services providers excellent in what they provide, and want to be proficient in sales to create a successful business.

JS
Jon Sly

Sr. Sales Manager Custom Solutions, IDC

I had the pleasure of working with John at Forrester for many years, first as a peer and later as a direct report. Simply put, John is one of the best sales professionals I've had the opportunity to work with. He combines exceptional business acumen, high emotional intelligence, and an unwaveringly positive attitude in a way that inspires confidence with both customers and colleagues. 

When John became the manager of our Western Region, he accomplished something that few top-performing salespeople do successfully: he made a seamless transition into leadership. He didn't just continue to perform at a high level—he elevated the performance of everyone around him. As a first-time manager, I benefited tremendously from John's guidance and mentorship. He created an environment built on trust, accountability, collaboration, and encouragement. His coaching challenged me to think differently, grow as a leader, and consistently strive to bring out the best in both myself and my team. 


What truly sets John apart is his ability to coach and develop sales professionals. He has a unique talent for quickly identifying both strengths and opportunities for improvement, then translating those insights into practical, actionable strategies that drive measurable results. John doesn't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. He tailors his coaching to the individual and the organization, helping sales leaders and sales teams improve performance, strengthen customer relationships, and build lasting confidence. He develops people, not just sales results, and that's what makes him such an effective sales coach and consultant. Beyond his leadership, John is simply a pleasure to work with. I always appreciated our thoughtful conversations, his willingness to share his experience, and his genuine investment in the success of others. 


 I recommend John without reservation to any organization looking to elevate its sales performance. Whether he's coaching individual sales professionals, developing frontline sales managers, or partnering with executive leadership as a trusted sales consultant, John brings the experience, insight, and practical approach to create meaningful, lasting results. If you're looking for someone who can help your sales organization grow, improve execution, and build a stronger sales culture, John is an outstanding choice.

I had the pleasure of working with John at Forrester for many years, first as a peer and later as a direct report. Simply put, John is one of the best sales professionals I've had the opportunity to work with. He combines exceptional business acumen, high emotional intelligence, and an unwaveringly positive attitude in a way that inspires confidence with both customers and colleagues. 

When John became the manager of our Western Region, he accomplished something that few top-performing salespeople do successfully: he made a seamless transition into leadership. He didn't just continue to perform at a high level—he elevated the performance of everyone around him. As a first-time manager, I benefited tremendously from John's guidance and mentorship. He created an environment built on trust, accountability, collaboration, and encouragement. His coaching challenged me to think differently, grow as a leader, and consistently strive to bring out the best in both myself and my team. 


What truly sets John apart is his ability to coach and develop sales professionals. He has a unique talent for quickly identifying both strengths and opportunities for improvement, then translating those insights into practical, actionable strategies that drive measurable results. John doesn't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. He tailors his coaching to the individual and the organization, helping sales leaders and sales teams improve performance, strengthen customer relationships, and build lasting confidence. He develops people, not just sales results, and that's what makes him such an effective sales coach and consultant. Beyond his leadership, John is simply a pleasure to work with. I always appreciated our thoughtful conversations, his willingness to share his experience, and his genuine investment in the success of others. 


 I recommend John without reservation to any organization looking to elevate its sales performance. Whether he's coaching individual sales professionals, developing frontline sales managers, or partnering with executive leadership as a trusted sales consultant, John brings the experience, insight, and practical approach to create meaningful, lasting results. If you're looking for someone who can help your sales organization grow, improve execution, and build a stronger sales culture, John is an outstanding choice.

GD
Greg DeGregorio
I had the pleasure of working for John Nelson. John had a great reputation within Forrester and a strong track record to boot. Before managing John qualified for multiple president's club winners and was a consistent over achiever, which carried over into his management role. The relationships he built with his customers was something to be envious of, he was the true meaning of a trusted advisor which I looked to learn from and try to incorporate into my own process. John is also one of the most genuine people I have ever met and worked for. He knows how to push you to be your best every day and was an amazing advocate to sr. leadership. I would highly recommend John to manage any sales organization and I would absolutely work for John again
I had the pleasure of working for John Nelson. John had a great reputation within Forrester and a strong track record to boot. Before managing John qualified for multiple president's club winners and was a consistent over achiever, which carried over into his management role. The relationships he built with his customers was something to be envious of, he was the true meaning of a trusted advisor which I looked to learn from and try to incorporate into my own process. John is also one of the most genuine people I have ever met and worked for. He knows how to push you to be your best every day and was an amazing advocate to sr. leadership. I would highly recommend John to manage any sales organization and I would absolutely work for John again